Brazil and Real Madrid defender Éder Militão will miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the Spanish club confirmed he requires surgery.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported the news, stating that the 28-year-old centre-back sustained an injury that has now been assessed by Real Madrid’s medical staff. The club has made the decision official, ruling Militão out for an extended period.
According to Brazilian journalist Cahe Mota, Militão will undergo surgery today in Finland. The procedure means he will be unavailable for Brazil’s preparations and the tournament itself, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Real Madrid expect Militão to return to action in October, ahead of the 2026/27 season. While the timeline offers some reassurance for the club, the defender’s injury is a significant blow for Brazil just weeks before the World Cup.